September 18, 2024

QUICK HITS

• A list of requirements for NGAS: USAF says, “We’re on it!”

• NGA picks 10 firms to compete for $290M for unclassified data analytics: The agency has yet to issue any task orders under Luno A program.

• AI and intelligent automation: Here’s how it can transform federal agency operations.

• NRC enlists GSA to help with AI governance: GSA-provided contractor to help toward alignment with White House guidance on AI use.

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DEFENSE & AEROSPACE

Space Development Agency wants laser links for satellite collaboration.

The SDA is pushing for satellite laser links that allow data sharing between spacecraft from different contractors. The goal? Seamless, inter-satellite communication without vendor lock-in, creating a more connected space infrastructure. Read more

US Air Force to revamp aircraft modernization programs.

Development programs under review include the sixth-generation Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform, the Next-Generation Air-refuelling System (NGAS), and the next tranche of low-cost, autonomous fighter jets known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). The shake-up will impact fleet upgrades, acquisitions, and sustainment, targeting innovation to keep up with evolving threats. Read more

Military leaders and industry partners tackle logistics challenges with innovation.

"We want to fight with an unfair advantage," Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., said. Brown said the solution to contested logistics challenges is to establish a globally connected, resilient defense ecosystem through collaborative regional sustainment strategies that leverage the strengths of allies, partners, and the defense industry base. Read more

ICYMI:

• RFI: Tech for enhanced space awareness: Space Defense Program aims to have it by 2030-2040.

• SDA is evaluating the future of niche space-based ISR missions.

• USSF will prioritize domain awareness, counterspace systems in FY26.

• Northrop has a new product line: NG InSight, a modular system of hardware and software aimed at CJADC2-style integration.

Defense Contract Awards

• MITRE inked a $541M USAF and NSEC support contract.

• Northrop won a $54.7M USAF Commercial Space Internet Defense Experimentation deal.

• Saab nabs DOD AI and ML Modeling Support contract.

• Data Path won more than $5M in contracts from the DOD for STT Technical Upgrades.

Follow the Defense Leaders

• HII has appointed a new CTO.

• Aperio Global has a new Operations VP.

Defense Job Openings

• USAF is hiring a Force Support Squadron Director.

• DOD wants a Security and Intelligence Director.

CHART

Top reported contributors to military construction project delays, fiscal years 2019-2023. (Source)

INTEL COMMUNITY

The intelligence community strengthens industry ties for better tech integration.

The intelligence community is doubling down on partnerships with the private sector, aiming to improve its adoption of cutting-edge technologies. By fostering closer industry ties, the goal is to streamline innovation and keep pace with evolving threats. Want to be a part of the conversation? Join them at the 2024 Intel Summit on Sept 19. Read more

The intelligence community’s data policy leaves room for improvement.

Critics argue that without stronger safeguards, private data could be misused or mishandled. While it's legal to collect public data, concerns are growing over privacy and oversight. The ODNI policy framework sets forth principles for acquiring and safeguarding commercially available information (CAI), with special rules for information that IC agencies deem “sensitive.” Read more

ICYMI:

• RFI: The FBI wants open-source facial recognition capabilities. Due date for responses is on October 15.

• Are airmen the solution? ACC Hackathon tackles tech challenges.

• Check out CIA’s “Artifact of the Week.”

• ODNI wants a new Division Chief.

CIVILIAN

NRC partners with GSA for AI governance strategy.

NRC’s aim is to ensure AI technologies used in the nuclear sector are as safe and secure as…well, a well-guarded reactor. The NRC has to work through an interagency agreement with GSA because the project manager is “doing all the contracting work, all the acquisition work on their side.” Sounds like a plan—just hope their AI doesn’t get a mind of its own! Read more

TSA biometrics advances face legislative and standards hurdles.

While the biometric technology is advancing quickly, the legal side is playing catch-up, with concerns over privacy and security still needing attention. For example, legislation, industry, and academia need to work together to prevent the use of defective algorithms. Different sectors collect data in different ways, which determines the level of accountability each sector needs to uphold. Read more

CISA is working to get federal agencies to “volt in” against cyber threats.

CISA is ramping up efforts to tackle evolving cyber threats with a comprehensive strategy. From bolstering incident response to enhancing coordination with private sectors, the agency is gearing up to make cyber criminals' lives harder. CISA’s FOCAL plan is designed to provide guidance and support to over 100 FCEB agencies. Read more

ICYMI:

• Grant: DOE funding to boost geothermal resource exploration efforts.

• Senators are urging the VA to be stricter with performance standards in health records contract.

• NRC grants exemption for Hermes 2 Reactor to complete a full EIS: Does this signify progress in the licensing process?

• EPA: $6.5B in financing is available for water infrastructure projects.

Civilian Contracts Awards

• DOC & DOD awarded Intel a $3B Semiconductor Production deal.

• AEM Corp won a $39M IES ED Facts Data and Dissemination Support Services contract.

• Makpar-Nuaxis JV inked a $15M DOI-OCIO MDS & EUA Support Services contract.

• Crown Consulting booked a NASA AMES deal.

Follow Civilian Leaders

• Former BigBear.ai VP was chosen to be Peraton’s Business Operations VP.

• V2X has a new CISO.

Civilian Job Openings

• USDA needs a Center Director.

• DOJ is seeking a Law Enforcement Associate Director.

M&A CORNER

CGI Federal expands with AEYON acquisition.

CGI Federal has completed its acquisition of AEYON, strengthening its position in the federal services market. The deal aims to boost CGI’s capabilities in financial management, data analytics, and emerging technologies—positioning them to take on even bigger projects in the GovCon space. Read more

CACI will acquire Azure Summit Tech to boost RF capabilities.

CACI is acquiring Azure Summit Technology to enhance its radio frequency and communications intelligence capabilities. This move strengthens CACI's position in delivering next-gen defense solutions, expanding its role in critical electronic warfare and SIGINT systems. Read more

SHOWER THOUGHTS 🚿

1. OceanGate hearings begin: Former Titan engineer claims that he told Stanton Rush that he ain’t riding in that sub. SOURCE↗︎ 

2. Someone tried to assassinate Trump… again! Ryan Wesley Routh, the suspected gunman, was 300-400 yards away from the presidential candidate. SOURCE↗︎

3. Can Starlink satellites detect F-22 and F-35 stealth jets? Chinese scientists demonstrated how they achieved it. SOURCE↗︎

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